Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB), together with Bonaire
International Airport (BIA) and Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA),
organized the first Bonaire Tourism Update for 2024 on April 3rd, 2024 at Captain Don’s Habitat.
Veroesjka de Windt, CEO of BONHATA, reported that in the first quarter of 2024, the
occupancy rate remained consistent with 2023 at 74%. January had a slow start,
February remained the same, while March had a 4% increase. For Q2, an increase of 11%
in occupancy rate is forecasted. Compared to 2023, the Average Daily Rate (ADR)
declined by 7%, from $239 in 2023 to $223 in 2024. Due to the introduction of new rooms
on the island without sufficient airlift. So, prices were being lowered to fill the rooms.
Forecast, for Q2, there is a decrease of 12%. From $201 in 2023 to $177 in 2024.
Consequently, there was a decrease in RevPar of 6% in Q1 2024, from $180 in 2023 to
$170 in 2024. The forecast for Q2 shows a further decline of 9%, from $112 in 2023 to $102
in 2024.
Maarten van der Scheer, Director of BIA, noted a remarkable increase in the number of
flights and passengers from North America: “Our joint efforts to attract more airlift from
North America have paid off very well. Even in a highly competitive environment, we
managed to increase these numbers in line with the Strategic Tourism Plan. The total
number of passengers at Flamingo Airport rose by 6.8% in the first quarter compared to
the same period in 2023. International passenger numbers rose by 7.8%, while inter-
island passengers increased by 4.3%. We recently celebrated the inauguration of a new
arrival canopy, a project to enhance the passenger experience. This year, we plan to
undertake several improvement projects, including constructing a solar park, realizing
the new airfield lighting system, and installing new security lanes.”
Miles Mercera, CEO of TCB, shared the preliminary results that indicated that Bonaire
welcomed 18,169 stayover visitors during March 2024. The first quarter attributed to
expanded services from various airlines originating from the United States and
additional seat offerings from inter-island carriers. During the first quarter of 2024, TCB
actively participated in various events, including the Vakantie Expo, ITB, DuikVaker,
Travel & Adventure Show NY, and Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show. TCB also had
different campaigns with partners such as KLM, United Airlines, ReisPro, and PSV, to
name a few. A quick view of upcoming events, SeaTrade, Travel Counsellors, and CHTA
Marketplace was also given. Lastly, an overview of upcoming press trips and public
relations opportunities for the North American and European markets was also shared.
